The Music Note

09/09/2025

Spotlight on Ms. Johannah Dickenson — Oboe Specialist at The Music Note

Discover a rare opportunity in oboe instruction with Johannah Dickenson!

Hailing from sunny Southern California, Johannah brings vibrant artistry and expert training to Pittsburgh’s musical community. She’s an accomplished freelance musician, having performed with the Altoona Symphony and the Johnstown Symphony Quintet, and thrives in both chamber ensembles and full orchestras.

Passionate about nurturing students at every level, Johannah holds a Bachelor of Music from Northern Arizona University and a Master of Music from Carnegie Mellon University, where she studied under Cynthia DeAlmeida.

What Sets Her Apart? A Unique Teaching Approach

Johannah is the first oboist we’ve ever met who teaches both the Philadelphia and Cleveland styles of oboe playing—a distinction that makes her instruction truly exceptional.

Most oboists aren’t even aware that there are two distinct schools of thought in oboe technique and tone production. That’s right—most oboists don’t know there are two different styles, which means taking lessons with Johannah at The Music Note offers you rare insight and flexibility.

Whether you're curious about the brighter, more focused sound often associated with Philadelphia-style oboe, or the broader, rounded tone of the Cleveland tradition, Johannah can guide you through both—and even help you discover your personal preference.

Why Choose Lessons with Johannah Dickenson?

Dual-Stylist Expertise: Benefit from her mastery of both Philadelphia and Cleveland oboe traditions—offering you choice, adaptability, and well-rounded technique.

Performance-Driven Teaching: Learn from someone who actively performs with symphonies and chamber groups—her real-world experience enhances the learning process.

High-Caliber Training: With degrees from Northern Arizona University and Carnegie Mellon University, Johannah brings a strong academic and musical foundation to your lessons.

Passionate Educator: Dedicated to inspiring students of every level with personalized instruction and enthusiasm.

Register today!

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeQxrproyfNxjpdH2pSb_IPg_PbpvVCy9HTpYepXpRYdt6dnw/viewform

09/06/2025

We are pleased to announce that our highly qualified piano faculty, Andrew Smith, Elwood Brant, Anita Snyder Kahle, and Jessica Bucci, have openings for new students this fall.

Learning piano provides lasting benefits that extend beyond music. Research has shown that music instruction enhances memory, attention, and problem-solving skills, which contribute to improved academic performance. A landmark study by E.G. Schellenberg in 2004 found that students who received music lessons showed significant increases in IQ compared to those who did not. Additional research highlights that students involved in music are more likely to score higher on standardized tests, perform better in math and reading, and demonstrate stronger executive functioning skills (Southgate & Roscigno, 2009; Hille & Schupp, 2015).

For students who are college bound, piano study develops discipline, time management, and persistence—qualities that are essential for success in higher education. For those pursuing a degree in music, piano training is indispensable. Nearly all collegiate music programs require piano proficiency because it provides the foundation for theory, ear training, score analysis, and accompaniment. Whether preparing for auditions, competitions, or future careers in performance, education, composition, or music therapy, a solid background in piano is a prerequisite.

At The Music Note, our faculty tailor lessons to meet individual student goals, from beginners to advanced musicians preparing for collegiate study.

📍 Location: 540 California Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15202
�📞 Phone: 304-290-8836

📝Registration form: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeQxrproyfNxjpdH2pSb_IPg_PbpvVCy9HTpYepXpRYdt6dnw/viewform

🛜Website: https://themusicnotebenavo.wixsite.com/the-music-note

Enrollment is limited. Secure your place today and invest in your child’s musical and academic success.

09/05/2025

We’ve had a great week working at Northgate schools! High School Choir has been developing their music reading skills, vocal technique, learned a piece in Hebrew and the dance that goes with it, preparing to audition student conductors for the Alma Mater, and more. Mr. Elwood and Mr. Andrew have spent the week with the 5th and 6th grade teaching them a scale so that they can begin piano lab on Monday! What fun we are having!!!

09/03/2025

Thank you, Jacquie Blender, for the bell donation in memory of your brother!

09/03/2025

Maybe this time with Ciara

09/01/2025

Our Voice competitive team traveled to New York City and participated in the International Youth Music Competition this weekend. They sang so well and brought many accolades to the city of Pittsburgh. Congratulations to Zaiden George, Alisa Mehlo, Nora Williams, Frances Williams, Aubrielle Cheatham, and Olivia Dower! Here are some photos from our adventure!

08/30/2025

08/30/2025

Master class #2 with Meredith Dean Augustin St. Francis Assisi we Church in Manhattan!

08/30/2025

Master class continuation

08/30/2025

NYC master class no 1 with Joanna Gulshak and Michael Dansicker